How MSKÜ Explored Professional Development That Leads to Classroom Impact

Turning Professional Development into Everyday Teaching Practice

Language teachers rarely struggle to find professional development opportunities. The greater challenge is often turning new ideas into meaningful changes in the classroom.

This question sat at the heart of Empowering Teachers for Classroom Impact, a one-day seminar organised by the MSKÜ School of Foreign Languages on 24 April 2026. Supported by the Eaquals Member Event Fund, the event brought together language educators from Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University and neighbouring institutions to explore a topic that resonates across the profession: how can professional development for classroom impact move beyond inspiration and lead to sustainable improvements in teaching and learning?

Rather than focusing solely on presentations, the organisers designed the event around discussion, reflection and practical exchange. As a result, participants had more opportunities to share experiences and learn from one another.

A Keynote Focused on the Changing Role of Language Teachers

The day opened with a keynote address by Prof. Dr. Şevki Kömür, Head of the Graduate School of Educational Sciences at MSKÜ.

In his presentation, The New English Teacher: Staying Relevant in the 21st Century, he explored the evolving demands placed on language educators. Topics included teacher agency, assessment literacy and the growing role of artificial intelligence in language education.

The keynote provided a useful starting point for the conversations that followed. In particular, it encouraged participants to think about how language teaching continues to evolve.

Four Conversations About Teacher Empowerment

Participants joined one of four facilitated focus groups, each examining a different aspect of empowered teaching:

• High-impact classroom practices and learner engagement
• Professional development that leads to real changes in teaching
• Sustainable systems that reduce workload and improve collaboration
• Teacher motivation, wellbeing and long-term career satisfaction

Working through structured discussion activities, each group identified key insights and practical recommendations. The aim was not simply to exchange ideas, but to produce outcomes that participants could take back to their own institutions and classrooms.

Afterwards, participants shared their findings during a closing panel session, creating an opportunity for participants to learn from perspectives beyond their own discussion groups.

Why Teacher Wellbeing Matters for Classroom Impact

Later in the day, teacher trainer and educational consultant Sena Akyol led a particularly thought-provoking session.

Her presentation, Emotional Intelligence and Teacher Well-being, addressed an area that is increasingly recognised as essential, yet is often overlooked in professional development programmes. Participants explored ways of recognising emotional triggers, responding constructively to challenges and protecting their energy over the long term.

The session sparked considerable discussion, reflecting a growing awareness that teacher wellbeing is closely connected to classroom effectiveness and professional sustainability.

Building Professional Development That Lasts

One of the most valuable aspects of the seminar was its emphasis on action. Throughout the day, participants were encouraged to connect theory with practice and consider how professional learning can influence everyday teaching decisions.

The organising team presented certificates to participants, speakers, moderators and organisers. in recognition of their contributions. More importantly, attendees left with practical ideas, shared experiences and new professional connections.

Events such as this demonstrate the value of creating spaces where educators can learn from one another, reflect on their practice and explore what truly supports professional development for classroom impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the focus of the MSKÜ teacher development seminar?

The seminar focused on how professional development can lead to meaningful classroom impact through practical teaching strategies, collaboration and reflection.

Who organised the event?

The event was organised by the MSKÜ School of Foreign Languages and supported by the Eaquals Member Event Fund.

What topics were discussed during the seminar?

Topics included teacher agency, assessment literacy, artificial intelligence in language education, teacher wellbeing, sustainable work practices and learner engagement.

Why is professional development for classroom impact important?

Professional development is most effective when it leads to positive changes in teaching practice, learner engagement and educational outcomes.

What role does teacher wellbeing play in classroom impact?

Teacher wellbeing can influence motivation, resilience and teaching effectiveness, making it an important part of sustainable professional growth.